Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

Name: Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 375 min
Ingredients: 2 boneless (skinless chicken breasts); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup carrots (sliced); 1 cup celery (diced); 1 onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups egg noodles; Salt to taste

When you need a warm hug in a bowl, this crockpot chicken noodle soup is the perfect solution. With tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and comforting noodles simmered to perfection, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Simply throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work while you sit back and relax. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup carrots, sliced
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups egg noodles
– Salt to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 6-8 hours on low or 4 hours on high.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (approximately 1.5 cups) contains about 250 calories, 12g of protein, 5g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 2g of fiber. These values are based on a single serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery on top of the chicken.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
4. Season with thyme, parsley, black pepper, and salt.
5. Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
6. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it and shred it with two forks.
7. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
8. Add the egg noodles to the soup.
9. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes or until noodles are tender.
10. Stir well, adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve hot.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a richer flavor. Additionally, any type of pasta can be used instead of egg noodles, and you can add vegetables like peas or corn for extra nutrition.

Serving and Pairings

This delicious soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, crackers, or a simple green salad. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a lovely touch.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be reheated on the stove or in the microwave. This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, noodles may become mushy upon reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Using too much salt can overpower the flavors.
Not shredding the chicken properly can lead to uneven texture.
Overcooking the noodles can make them mushy.
Forgetting to add seasoning can result in bland soup.
Using low-quality broth can affect the overall taste.

Helpful Tips

For added depth of flavor, sauté the vegetables before adding them to the crockpot.
Try adding a splash of lemon juice before serving for brightness.
Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or basil for variety.
If you like spice, consider adding red pepper flakes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it cooks thoroughly. It may take longer to reach the safe internal temperature.

How can I thicken the soup?

To thicken the soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry or use less broth. Also, adding more noodles will naturally thicken the soup.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free noodles and ensuring the broth is certified gluten-free.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and refrigerate them, then cook them in the morning.

How do I adjust the recipe for a smaller serving?

You can easily halve the ingredients and adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring it still cooks thoroughly.

Conclusion

Crockpot chicken noodle soup is a timeless classic that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for busy days. Enjoy the rich flavors and heartwarming aroma that fills your home as it simmers in the crockpot. Your family will love this nourishing and satisfying soup!